Golf Cart and Car Accidents

Golf carts are leaving the golf course and entering our roadways. They are a cost-effective, environmentally friendly way to get around town. But golf carts and larger motor vehicles may not mix well on city streets. Determining who’s at fault when a golf cart and car have an accident can be difficult. Factors like negligence and local traffic laws help you answer that question.

This article explains the legal aspects when a golf cart has an accident with a car. Golf cart laws vary by jurisdiction. A car accident attorney will know the laws in your area. They can give you legal advice if you have a golf cart accident.

What Is a Golf Cart?

A golf cart is a small, low-speed motor vehicle. Golfers primarily use them for transportation on the golf course. They are also an excellent way to get around retirement communities and apartment complexes. They’re popular in states like Florida, where you can drive them all year.

Golf carts are four-wheel vehicles with an open design. Most seat two to four people with room for golf clubs and other items.

Can I Drive a Golf Cart on a City Street?

Rules vary in cities that allow golf carts on public roads. Common laws include the following:

• Age restriction: You may have to be over a certain age to drive a golf cart. Sixteen or older is common.
• Licensing: You may need a driver’s license to drive a golf cart on city streets.
• Insurance: Some states require liability insurance for golf carts.
• Speed limit: Some areas have maximum speeds for golf carts. Golf carts also may not be allowed on roads with higher speed limits. For example, in some places you can only drive them on roads with a speed limit below 35 mph.
• Required equipment: You may need certain safety features to drive your golf cart on a city street. Examples include seat belts, head and taillights, and rearview mirrors.
• Traffic laws: You must follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles on public roads.
• Driving while impaired: You can’t drive a golf cart while you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

What Are Common Golf Cart Injuries?

Golf cart crashes with cars and rollovers can cause many severe injuries, which are common due to their open design and small size.

Common golf-cart accident injuries include broken bones and lacerations. Concussions, neck injuries, and traumatic brain injuries are common.

Who’s at Fault When a Car and Golf Cart Have an Accident?

Golf carts and cars sometimes have accidents with each other. Fault in a golf cart accident depends on the specifics of the accident. Factors considered in determining fault include the following:

• Negligence: If either the golf cart driver or car driver were negligent, they may be at fault. Some jurisdictions follow the comparative negligence principle. So, fault may be divided between the golf cart and car drivers if each was negligent.
• Traffic laws: Violating traffic laws could factor into the determination of fault. Not yielding the right of way and speeding are common examples.
• Witness statements: What witnesses saw and other evidence can assist in determining fault.

Golf cart owners can also be at fault even when they aren’t driving the cart. An example is when a golf course’s failure to properly maintain the cart contributes to the accident.

What Should I Do if I’m in a Golf Cart Accident?

First, you should ensure everyone is safe. Call emergency services if anyone is injured. Then take the following steps:

• Contact the appropriate authorities to report the accident.
• Gather information from the other people involved in the accident. Get their names, contact information, and insurance details.
• Gather the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Take pictures of the scene and any damage to the vehicles. Also, get photos of the surrounding area.
• Contact your insurance company to report the accident.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney for Help With Your Case

A car accident involving a golf cart can cause serious injuries. Unfortunately, who’s at fault isn’t always straightforward. An experienced personal injury lawyer will know your state and local laws. They can give you advice about your situation and represent you in court and in negotiations with insurance companies.